When choosing a place to call home, few things matter more to families than the quality of the local school system. For residents of The Ponds in Summerville, SC, education is a major part of what makes this master-planned community so appealing to families of all sizes.
Whether you're relocating from out of state, a local buyer looking to upgrade, or a grandparent hoping to live closer to your grandchildren, understanding the school landscape around The Ponds can help you feel confident in your decision. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about education in and around The Ponds—from top-rated schools to zoning insights and community involvement.
📍 What School District Is The Ponds In?
The Ponds is located in Dorchester School District Two (DD2)—one of the most respected school districts in South Carolina. Known for its academic rigor, supportive staff, and diverse extracurricular offerings, DD2 consistently ranks among the top-performing districts in the state.
🏫 Zoned Schools for The Ponds
Residents of The Ponds are currently zoned for the following public schools:
Sand Hill Elementary School
Grades: Pre-K–5
Distance from The Ponds: Less than 2 miles / ~5 minutes by car
School District: Dorchester School District Two (DD2)
image: Sand Hill Elementary School Entrance via website
📍 Location & Accessibility
Sand Hill Elementary is conveniently located just minutes from The Ponds, making morning drop-offs and afternoon pickups a breeze for busy families. Its close proximity is a major perk for parents with young children, especially those with staggered school schedules or younger siblings still at home.
🌟 Academic & Program Highlights
Sand Hill Elementary is more than just a neighborhood school — it’s a cornerstone of early education in the Summerville, SC area. Known for both academic excellence and a well-rounded approach to learning, the school offers a number of enriching programs that set it apart:
- STEM Enrichment Programs: Integrated science, technology, engineering, and math initiatives help students develop problem-solving skills and critical thinking from a young age.
- Arts Integration: The school embraces a well-rounded curriculum that includes visual arts, music, and creative expression woven into daily instruction.
- Small Group Instruction: Teachers use data-driven strategies to tailor learning for each student, supporting both high achievers and those who may need extra help.
- Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): Focused programs promote empathy, teamwork, and personal growth — supporting the “whole child” development model.
🧑🏫 Teacher Spotlight
The faculty at Sand Hill is consistently recognized for its dedication and passion. Many teachers hold advanced certifications, and several have been nominated for district-level awards.
🏅 Performance & Reputation
Sand Hill Elementary has earned a reputation for academic excellence in the Lowcountry, thanks to high standardized test scores, strong reading and math performance, and a culture of achievement. According to GreatSchools, the school regularly scores above state averages in both ELA and math proficiency.
It’s also known for:
- A low student-to-teacher ratio
- A nurturing, inclusive classroom environment
- A highly involved PTO that helps fund classroom initiatives, events, and enrichment programs
👪 Community Connection
As a school that directly serves The Ponds neighborhood, Sand Hill Elementary plays a big role in building community connections. Many children in The Ponds attend school together, ride the bus together, and see each other at neighborhood events — helping them form strong social bonds early on.
For parents, this also means easier coordination of carpools, school events, and after-school playdates within the same community.
✅ Key Info for New Residents
Sand Hill Elementary School Principal, Vincent Joy
School Website: Visit Sand Hill Elementary Website
Principal: Vincent Joy
Phone: (843) 695-5201
Address: 324 Gnarly Oak Lane, Summerville, SC 29485
Hours: 7:25 AM – 2:25 PM
Gregg Middle School
Grades: 6–8
Distance from The Ponds: Approximately 10–12 minutes by car
School District: Dorchester School District Two (DD2)
image: Gregg Middle School Entrance via website
📍 Location & Accessibility
Gregg Middle School is located just a short drive from The Ponds, making it a convenient option for families transitioning from elementary to middle school. The location offers quick access via SC-165 and is well-integrated into the broader Summerville school community, with many students advancing from nearby elementary schools like Sand Hill.
Bus transportation is available to and from The Ponds, and many families coordinate carpools to make the school day even easier.
🌟 Academic & Program Highlights
Gregg Middle is known for its balance of academic rigor and whole-child development. The school supports a wide range of student interests and learning styles through both core curriculum and enrichment programs.
Key academic features include:
- Advanced & Honors Courses: Students can take pre-AP coursework in math, science, and English to prepare for high school rigor.
- STEAM Integration: The school offers STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) experiences that go beyond textbooks with real-world problem-solving projects.
- Career Exploration Modules: Students are introduced to early career pathways through guest speakers, exploratory electives, and skills-based learning.
- Reading & Writing Focus: With a strong ELA department, Gregg supports literacy growth at all levels and emphasizes writing across the curriculum.
🧪 Popular Electives & Clubs:
- Robotics & Coding
- Orchestra, Band & Chorus
- Art & Drama
- Student Council
- Environmental Club
- Intramural Sports
💡 Fun Fact: Gregg Middle is a feeder school for Summerville High School, meaning students can seamlessly transition into high school life with a strong foundation and established peer connections.
🏅 Performance & Reputation
Gregg Middle has a reputation for excellence in both academics and student support. Teachers are deeply committed to helping students succeed during this critical transition from childhood to adolescence.
The school is widely respected for:
- Strong test scores in math, reading, and science
- Innovative teaching strategies and technology integration
- An inclusive school culture that embraces diversity and individual learning needs
🏆 Recent Accolades:
- Named a SC Department of Education Palmetto Silver Award Winner
- Recognized for exemplary performance in ELA growth year-over-year
- Staff members often receive district-level recognition for leadership in instruction and student mentorship
👨👩👧👦 School Community & Culture
Gregg Middle School has a vibrant student life culture. From pep rallies to performance nights and community service projects, students have plenty of opportunities to build confidence, explore interests, and create lasting friendships.
Parents are also welcomed as active partners through:
- PTA & volunteer opportunities
- Parent-teacher conferences & progress nights
- School-wide events and fundraisers
The connection between home and school is a big reason why families from The Ponds feel supported and engaged throughout their child’s middle school journey.
✅ Key Info for New Residents
Gregg Middle School Principal, Alice Kelley
School Website: Visit Gregg Middle School Website
Principal: Alice Kelley
Phone: (843) 871-3150
Address: 500 Green Wave Boulevard, Summerville, SC 29483
Hours: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
🏫 Summerville High School
Grades: 9–12
Distance from The Ponds: Approximately 15–20 minutes by car
School District: Dorchester School District Two (DD2)
image: Summerville High School Exterior via website
📍 Location & Accessibility
Summerville High School, affectionately known as “The Home of the Green Wave,” is located in the heart of historic Summerville. While it’s a bit farther from The Ponds than the elementary and middle schools, it’s still easily accessible via Highway 17A or SC-165. Many students from The Ponds ride the school bus or carpool with neighbors.
Its central location also means it’s close to local businesses, restaurants, and community resources, giving students additional opportunities for internships, after-school jobs, and service projects.
🎓 Academic & Program Highlights
Summerville High is one of the largest and most comprehensive high schools in the Lowcountry, offering an impressive range of academic, artistic, and career-oriented programs. Students at SHS can tailor their education to match their goals—whether that’s college prep, skilled trades, or workforce readiness.
Academic Standouts Include:
- Advanced Placement (AP) Courses: Wide selection of AP classes including English, Calculus, Biology, US History, Psychology, and more.
- Dual Enrollment: Partnered with local colleges such as Trident Technical College for early college credit.
- Career & Technology Education (CTE): Robust programs in engineering, business, culinary arts, health science, and digital media.
- Special Education & Inclusive Learning: Dedicated staff and resources to support IEPs, 504s, and inclusive classroom learning.
- 🎓 College Readiness: Summerville High offers personalized college counseling, SAT/ACT prep support, and a Career Center that helps students explore post-secondary options including college, trade school, and the military.
🎭 Arts, Athletics & Extracurriculars
Summerville High isn’t just about academics—it’s a hub of student life and school pride. From championship-winning sports teams to award-winning fine arts programs, students have countless ways to get involved and find their passions.
Athletics (Go Green Wave!):
- Football, Basketball, Soccer, Tennis, Track & Field, Wrestling, Lacrosse, and more
- State championships in several sports
- Strong feeder programs from Gregg Middle and DD2 youth leagues
Fine Arts & Student Activities:
- Marching Band, Chorus, Orchestra, and Theater
- National Honor Society, Student Government, Robotics Team, and Debate Club
- Dozens of special interest clubs and service organizations
🏆 Did You Know? Summerville High School’s marching band has performed in national competitions and its athletic programs have produced collegiate and professional-level athletes.
🏅 Reputation & Community Impact
Summerville High has been a cornerstone of the town’s identity for over 100 years and is deeply rooted in local tradition. It’s known for:
- A strong alumni network
- Community service culture and student leadership
- A safe, inclusive, and values-driven learning environment
Families appreciate the school’s commitment to both academic growth and personal development. The staff is known for being approachable and invested in student success, and many SHS grads go on to attend top universities or begin rewarding careers locally.
👨👩👧👦 Transitioning from Middle to High School
Summerville High has a thoughtful freshman onboarding program, designed to help 9th graders transition smoothly from middle school. Orientation days, mentorship programs, and freshman-specific counselors ensure students don’t just survive the jump—they thrive.
Many students from Gregg Middle move up together, which helps maintain social continuity for families living in The Ponds.
✅ Key Info for New Residents
Summerville High School Principal, Dr. Michelle Leviner
School Website: Visit Summerville High School Website
Principal: Dr. Michelle Leviner
Phone: (843) 873-6460
Address: 1101 Boone Hill Road, Summerville, SC 29483
Hours: 8:55 AM – 3:55 PM
🎒 What Makes These Schools Stand Out?
Each of the schools serving The Ponds is backed by a strong parent-teacher community and active student life. They’ve also been recognized for:
- High test scores and graduation rates
- Advanced Placement and gifted programs
- Extracurriculars ranging from robotics to chorus to athletics
- Accessibility to after-school care and enrichment programs
And because The Ponds itself encourages strong community connections, many families find that their children’s school life is closely tied to neighborhood life—building friendships and support systems that go beyond the classroom.
🗺️ School Zoning and Attendance
Zoning is handled by Dorchester District Two, and while The Ponds currently feeds into the schools listed above, boundaries can occasionally shift as the district grows. If you're considering a move, we recommend:
- Checking the Dorchester District Two school zoning map
- Contacting the district for the most current information
- Confirming school assignments with your REALTOR®
🔍 Pro Tip: Want to stay up to date? You can use this school locator tool on the DD2 website to double-check school assignments by address.
👪 For Relocating Families: Transitioning to New Schools
Moving is a big transition—especially for kids. Fortunately, DD2 schools are known for helping new students settle in quickly. From orientation programs to buddy systems and active PTO groups, there’s a strong support network in place.
If you’re planning a move mid-year:
- Contact the school early to begin the enrollment process
- Ask about registration requirements (proof of residency, immunizations, etc.)
- Set up a school tour (many are available virtually!)
🏡 Looking to Live Near These Top-Rated Schools?
As local real estate experts of The Ponds neighborhood, Charleston’s Best Home Team knows how important school zones are when buying a home. Whether you're looking for a charming family home, something in the 55+ Carillon community, or your first home in a great district—we're here to guide you every step of the way.
📞 Have questions about moving into The Ponds or school zoning? Let’s talk - Contact Us today!